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Road rules

By ninemsn staff
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Air date: Thursday, August 23, 2012
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Road rules
what others are saying
Our police force is encumbered with enforcing laws designed to raise revenue - and set targets for doing so.
Judi Morris
, HAMILTON HILL WA
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It's a legal jungle out there when it comes to knowing the road rules but if you don't know them it could hurt your hip pocket and cost you your license.

While many know that it's illegal to use your mobile phone whilst driving, anything that may distract a driver could also be considered an offence, according to Inspector Phil Brooks of the NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol.

People using laptops, iPads, eating their breakfast, shaving and putting on makeup are all at risk of being fined and losing points.

But sometimes the laws can be a little trickier. Check out the following road rules we discovered:

— If you pull over to take a phone call in Victoria, you can be fined $282 if the engine is running

— Having your mobile on loudspeaker in your lap is illegal

— Wearing your seatbelt incorrectly, such as having it twisted or wearing it under your arm, could cost you up to $300

— Excessive use of the horn could land you with a fine

— Resting your arm outside the car is also a no-no

— In NSW and Queensland, you'll be fined if you are driving without your license on you. In Victoria, you have seven days to produce it

— L-platers and P-platers always have to have their license on them

— Accidentally leaving L-plates or P-plates on the car when you're a fully licensed driver will see you coughing up more than $100 in some states

— Leaving your keys in your car is illegal, as is leaving the car unlocked or the windows down

— Cyclists can also be fined for running red lights or riding irresponsibly

— But luckily, you can drive with bare feet

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